Concern over McDonald’s bid to open until 2am

Fast food junkies will be ‘lovin’ it’ if McDonald’s is allowed to extend its opening hours.

The council’s licensing department will decide on Friday whether the fast food outlet in The Oracle can stay open throughout the week until 2am. But the plan to increase closing times from 11pm has been opposed by Steve Belam, manager at The Oracle.

In a letter to the council, he objects on the grounds of public nuisance, crime and disorder and public safety concerns.

“The current operation is already a ‘hotspot’ for anti-social behaviour and large gatherings of youths,” his letter reads. “The anti-social behaviour we regularly see comes in the form of spitting, shouting, swearing, obstructing the walkways, refusing to leave when asked to do so, fighting, and members of the public feeling intimidated.

“This anti-social behaviour takes place within the venue and regularly outside the venue.”

McDonald’s has pledged to hand over CCTV footage to police and council officers immediately on request, keep pathways directly outside the premises clear at all times, and not to hold children’s parties between 11pm and 2am.